THE TEACHER Nansen found two groups of monks, from the East hall and the West hall, squabbling over the ownership of a pet cat. He picked up the cat, waved it in the air over his head, and said to the quarrelers:

"Say a good word if you want to save the cat!"No one said a word.Nansen went to the kitchen, brought back a big cleaver, and chopped the cat in half.He gave one-half to each group.

That night when Joshu returned to the monastery, Nansen told him the story. Joshu said nothing; but he took off his sandals, balanced them on his head, and walked away.

Anything goes.In an international haiku community, there are many options based on many opinions. The patient has a right to informed consent.The poets are given enough information to choose what they can accept.